Siera Marine Wins Funding to Expand Australian Seafarer Training

Australian crew management and maritime workforce specialist Siera Marine Management has secured funding through the Australian government’s Maritime Skills and Training Initiative (MSTI) to help increase the number of qualified seafarers entering the industry.

The funding will support the Australian Maritime Workforce Development – Sea Time Support Project, which aims to provide sea-time placements for 49 cadets and trainees between 2026 and 2028.

The project forms part of the Australian government’s broader efforts to expand training opportunities for seafarers and strengthen the nation’s maritime workforce.

Participants will be able to gain experience across a range of career pathways, including deck, engineering, electro-technical, and integrated rating roles. All sea-time placements will meet Australian Maritime Safety Authority certification requirements as well as relevant international standards.

“Access to sea time remains one of the most significant barriers for aspiring seafarers. This program allows us to work closely with vessel operators and industry partners to create training opportunities that support certification and long-term careers at sea,” said Samuel Coote, Managing Director of Siera Marine Management.

The initiative aligns closely with the goals of the MSTI program, which seeks to increase access to training berths and enable more Australian cadets and trainees to complete the sea service required to achieve professional certification.